Can I Get an STI Without Sex?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are incredibly common. In fact, about half of everyone in the United States will get an STI in their lifetimes. And while they’re typically spread by sexual contact, you might wonder if it's possible to contract an STI without engaging in sex.

The answer is yes. Some STIs can be transmitted through non-sexual means, and understanding how it can happen could help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need. At Path MD Labs, we specialize in advanced STI pathogen detection with R-PCR testing. 

If you’re concerned you might have an STI even without recent sexual activity, here’s what you should know.

Understanding non-sexual transmission of STIs

As the name implies, STIs are typically spread through sexual contact. However, there are a few different ways you can get an STI, even without having sex.

Sharing needles or syringes

Intravenous drug use involving shared needles or syringes is a major risk factor for contracting STIs, particularly HIV and hepatitis C. Reuse needles that someone with an STI has used can introduce these infections directly into your bloodstream. It’s also possible to contract an STI if you get a tattoo with used needles.

Mother-to-child transmission

Certain STIs, like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, can be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This type of transmission is known as vertical transmission, and it can have serious consequences for the child's health if it’s not diagnosed and promptly addressed.

Non-sexual contact with infected areas

STIs like herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) can be transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact or kissing, even if you don’t have sexual intercourse. Infections like scabies and pubic lice can also spread through sharing bedding, towels, or clothing with an infected person.

Blood transfusions and organ transplants

Blood transfusions and organ transplants are generally safe because rigorous screening processes are followed, but there is still a small risk of contracting STIs like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C from contaminated blood or organs.

Could you have an STI? The importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment

If you think you have symptoms of an STI, it’s important to seek medical care — whether or not you’ve had sexual contact recently. Early diagnosis and treatment of STIs are essential to prevent complications and protect your sexual health, as well as the health of your future sexual partners.

Untreated STIs can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk of acquiring other infections. For example, untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can potentially lead to infertility.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment also help prevent the spread of STIs to others. When you know your diagnosis, you can seek appropriate treatment and inform your sexual partners so they can get tested, too.

Benefits of our STI pathogen detection services

At Path MD Labs, we offer advanced STI pathogen detection services, including RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) testing, to diagnose STIs quickly and accurately. Our services cover a wide range of pathogens, and this comprehensive approach helps identify co-infections so all potential risks can be addressed.

RT-PCR testing provides highly accurate results — up to 98-100% — even for rare or complex cases. This level of precision is crucial for ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment. Plus, your results are available within 24-28 hours. Quick action helps prevent the spread of STIs and allows your healthcare team to treat associated health concerns promptly.

While sexual contact is the most common way people get STIs, non-sexual transmission is possible, and symptoms shouldn’t be overlooked. Early diagnosis and treatment help you avoid complications and improve health outcomes. Call 424-245-7284 to learn more about the pathogen detection services available at Path MD Labs in Los Angeles, California.